single-mindedness
UK[ˌsɪŋɡl ˈmaɪndɪdnəs]US[ˌsɪŋɡl ˈmaɪndɪdnəs]
n
The quality of being very determined and thinking only about achieving a particular thing
Morpheme Breakdown
single
minded
ness
single
one
minded
having a mind
ness
state or quality
Etymology
The word 'single-mindedness' is a modern English compound built from three native and assimilated elements. The core concept originates from the Old English word for 'mind' (gemynd), which is related to the Proto-Indo-European root men- meaning "to think". The adjective 'single-minded' was formed by combining 'single', implying exclusivity and focus, with 'minded', creating the sense of "having a mind devoted to one purpose". Finally, the abstract noun suffix '-ness', of Germanic origin, was appended to form 'single-mindedness', denoting the state or quality of such concentrated determination. The term's logic is transparent: it describes the condition of having one's mental faculties unified and directed toward a singular objective.
Analysis
Structure: single (one) + minded (having a mind) + ness (state or quality)
- single: From Latin singulus (one, individual). In this compound, it functions as an intensifier meaning "exclusively one" or "undivided".
- minded: From Old English gemynd (memory, thought) + the suffix -ed, forming an adjective meaning "having a (specified kind of) mind".
- ness: From Old English -nes(s), a noun-forming suffix denoting a state, quality, or condition.
Examples
Her single-mindedness in pursuing her goals was admired by everyone on the team.
The project's success was due largely to the director's relentless single-mindedness.
While his single-mindedness was an asset in competition, it sometimes made him overlook other important aspects of life.